How To Feather Hair Using Pinking Shears
Feathered hair has always been a popular hairstyle for those looking to add movement and texture to their locks. If you’re tired of your flat and lifeless hair, why not try feathering it? Feathering your hair can give it volume, bounce, and a fun, flirty look that is sure to turn heads. And guess what? You can achieve this trendy hairstyle right at home – all you need is a pair of pinking shears!
So, what are pinking shears?
Pinking shears are specialized scissors that have a zigzag or sawtooth blade. They are commonly used in sewing to prevent fabric from fraying, but they can also be used to create feathered hair. The unique blade design of pinking shears helps to cut hair into soft, feather-like strands, adding texture and movement to your hairstyle. It’s a quick and easy way to update your look without going to the salon.
But how do you feather your hair using pinking shears?
First, start by washing and drying your hair. It’s important to have clean, dry hair so that you can have better control while cutting. Next, section your hair into smaller, more manageable parts. This will make the feathering process easier and more precise. Now, take your pinking shears and hold them at an angle, around 45 degrees, and begin to make small cuts along the length of your hair. Remember to only cut a small amount at a time, as you can always cut more if needed. Continue this process across all sections of your hair until you achieve your desired feathered look.
Why should you feather your hair?
Feathering your hair adds dimension and movement, giving it a more voluminous and textured appearance. It can make fine hair appear thicker and add bounce to limp, flat hair. Feathered hair also has a soft and feminine look that is universally flattering. Whether you have long or short hair, feathering can work for you. So why not grab those pinking shears and give it a try?
What are Pinking Shears?
Pinking shears are a type of specialty scissors that have a sawtooth or zigzag pattern on the blades. They are commonly used in sewing and crafting to create a decorative edge or to prevent fabric from fraying.
The zigzag pattern of the blades allows the shears to cut through fabric in a way that helps to reduce fraying. The edges of the fabric are shaped in a zigzag pattern, which helps to bind the fibers together and prevent them from unraveling.
These shears are often used to finish seams on garments, giving a clean and professional look. They can also be used to create decorative edges on fabric, adding a unique touch to clothing, accessories, or home décor items.
Pinking shears are typically made with stainless steel blades for durability and sharpness. They come in various sizes and styles, allowing you to choose the best option for your specific project.
When using pinking shears, it is important to make sure the fabric is properly aligned before cutting. This will ensure that the zigzag pattern is consistent and creates a clean edge. It is also a good idea to test the shears on a scrap piece of fabric before cutting your desired material.
Overall, pinking shears are a versatile tool that can be used in a variety of sewing and crafting projects. Whether you are looking to prevent fabric from fraying or add a decorative edge, pinking shears are a useful addition to any sewing kit.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Helps prevent fabric from fraying | May be more expensive than regular scissors |
| Creates decorative edges | Requires proper alignment for best results |
| Can be used in a variety of sewing projects | May not be suitable for all types of fabric |
Advantages of Feathering Hair
Feathering hair using pinking shears can offer numerous advantages and benefits that make it a popular haircutting technique. Here are some of the advantages of feathering hair:
1. Adds Volume and Texture: Feathering hair creates layers and texture, which can add volume to flat or thin hair. It gives the hair a lighter and softer appearance, making it look more voluminous and bouncy.
2. Enhances Face Shape: Feathering hair allows for the creation of soft and feathered edges around the face, which can enhance and flatter different face shapes. It can help balance out prominent features or add softness to angular or square face shapes.
3. Reduces Bulk: Feathering hair helps to reduce bulkiness in thick or heavy hair. By removing some of the weight and creating layers, it can make the hair more manageable and easier to style.
4. Improved Styling Options: Feathered hair offers more styling options compared to blunt cuts or one-length hair. The layered texture allows for versatility in creating different hairstyles, including soft waves, tousled looks, and updos.
5. Softens Harsh Lines: Feathering hair helps to soften harsh lines and create a more blended and seamless look. It can provide a more natural and effortless appearance, particularly if you want to achieve a relaxed and casual style.
6. Low Maintenance: Feathered haircuts generally require less maintenance compared to other hairstyles. The layered texture helps to hide imperfections and disguises grown-out roots, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a low-maintenance haircut.
Overall, feathering hair using pinking shears is a versatile technique that offers many advantages. It can transform the look and feel of your hair, giving it more volume, texture, and softness. Whether you have thin or thick hair, feathering can be a great option to enhance your hairstyle and make it more manageable.
Step 1: Wash and Dry Your Hair
Before you start feathering your hair using pinking shears, it’s important to make sure your hair is clean and dry. This will ensure that you achieve the best results and that your feathers stay in place.
Start by washing your hair with a mild shampoo and conditioner. Be sure to thoroughly rinse out all the product to avoid any residue that could weigh down your hair or interfere with the feathering process.
Once you’ve finished washing your hair, gently pat it dry with a towel to remove any excess moisture. Avoid rubbing your hair vigorously as this can cause frizz and damage the hair cuticles.
Next, use a hairdryer to completely dry your hair. Set the dryer to a medium or low heat setting to minimize heat damage. Point the dryer down the hair shaft to smooth the cuticles and promote shine.
If you have time, allow your hair to air dry partially before using the hairdryer. This will help reduce the amount of heat your hair is exposed to and result in healthier-looking results.
Choosing the Right Products
While washing and drying your hair, it’s important to use products that are suitable for your hair type. Choose a shampoo and conditioner that address your specific hair concerns, such as dryness, oiliness, or damage.
Additionally, consider using a heat protectant spray before using the hairdryer. This will help minimize heat damage and protect your hair from the high temperatures.
Preventing Frizz
To prevent frizz while drying your hair, you can apply a small amount of anti-frizz serum or argan oil to the ends of your hair. This will help smooth any frayed strands and keep your hair looking sleek when you feather it with the pinking shears.
| Tips: |
|---|
| Do not use pinking shears on wet or damp hair, as this can cause uneven feathering and damage the shears. |
| Always make sure your hair is completely dry before feathering to achieve the best results. |
| If your hair is prone to frizz, consider applying a non-greasy hair serum or cream after drying to keep your feathers smooth and well-defined. |
Step 2: Prepare Your Pinking Shears
Before you start feathering your hair, you’ll need to make sure your pinking shears are clean and sharp. Here are a few steps to prepare them:
- Wipe down your pinking shears with a clean cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
- If there is any residual hair or product on the blades, use a small brush or toothpick to gently remove it.
- Check the sharpness of the blades by carefully cutting a piece of paper. If the shears struggle to cut smoothly or leave jagged edges, it may be time to sharpen them.
- If your pinking shears need sharpening, you have a few options. You can take them to a professional sharpener or purchase a sharpening stone to do it yourself. Follow the instructions provided with the sharpening stone for best results.
- Once your pinking shears are clean and sharp, hold them with the blades facing up and lightly oil them with a thin coat of clipper or sewing machine oil. This will help ensure smooth, precise cuts.
By taking the time to properly prepare your pinking shears, you’ll be ready to feather your hair with ease and achieve professional-looking results.
Step 3: Section Your Hair
Before you start feathering your hair, it’s important to section your hair so that it’s easier to work with.
Here’s how you can section your hair:
1. Divide Your Hair
Start by dividing your hair into two equal sections, separating the top and bottom layers. Use a hairclip or hair tie to keep each section secure.
2. Create Smaller Sections
To ensure a more precise feathering technique, create smaller sections within each larger section. You can use hair clips or hair ties to separate the smaller sections as well.
Make sure that each section you create is a manageable size and not too thick, as it will affect how well the pinking shears cut through your hair.
By sectioning your hair properly, you’ll have better control over the feathering process and achieve more consistent results.
Step 4: Cut Your Hair with Pinking Shears
Once you have prepared your hair for feathering, it’s time to grab your pinking shears and get to work. Pinking shears are special scissors with a zigzag edge that create a textured and feathery look when used on hair.
Here’s how to cut your hair with pinking shears:
- Start by dividing your hair into small sections. This will make it easier to work with and ensure that you don’t miss any sections.
- Take a small section of hair and hold it between your fingers. Gently glide the pinking shears down the length of the hair, making sure to keep the shears at an angle.
- Continue cutting the rest of the hair in the same manner, working your way around your head. Remember to maintain the angle of the pinking shears to achieve the desired feathering effect.
- Once you have finished cutting all the sections, take a moment to assess the overall appearance of your feathered hair. If you notice any unevenness or areas that need further trimming, make necessary adjustments accordingly.
- After completing the cutting process, shake out your hair to see how it falls naturally. This will help you determine if any additional trimming or feathering is required.
Remember, it’s always better to start with less hair when using pinking shears. You can always go back and cut more if needed, but it’s difficult to fix a cut that’s too short.
With these steps, you should now have a beautifully feathered hairstyle achieved with pinking shears! Remember to practice caution while cutting and take your time to ensure the best results.
Questions and answers
What are pinking shears?
Pinking shears are scissors that have a zigzag or sawtooth edge, which creates a decorative pattern when cutting fabric or hair.
Can I use pinking shears to feather my hair?
Yes, pinking shears can be used to feather hair. They create a layered, textured look by cutting the hair diagonally with the zigzag edge.
Is it easy to feather hair using pinking shears?
Feathering hair with pinking shears can be a bit more challenging compared to using regular scissors. It requires precision and control to achieve the desired effect.
What is the difference between feathering and regular hair cutting?
Feathering hair involves creating soft, wispy ends by cutting the hair at an angle with pinking shears. Regular cutting, on the other hand, is done with straight scissors and focuses on removing length or adding shape to the hair.
Can anyone feather their own hair at home using pinking shears?
Feathering hair with pinking shears can be a DIY project, but it’s recommended to have some experience with cutting hair or seek professional guidance to ensure the best results.
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